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The 13th edition of Maruti Suzuki Raid-de-Himalaya  one of the toughest motorsport events in the world  is set to begin on Monday in the state. For the first time,the event will have strict noise control measures in place,besides a mandatory alert regarding environment protection for all the 160 participants driving through treacherous mountain routes for the next one week.

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Manjeev Bhalla,an organiser,said: As per the guidelines of the Federation Internationale De Automobile,noise pollution levels should be maintained between 89 and 103 decibels. Any vehicle exceeding the limit will attract action. Thus,stricter checks will be conducted during the mandatory scrutiny session before the start of the rally.

He added: Every participant has been asked to carry a tarpaulin sheet. There are two important usages of the sheet  if the vehicle breaks down,it can be spread on the soil surface so that there is no oil spill and if the vehicle requires repairs,the sheet can be used to cover the surface. Moreover,garbage also has to be collected.

Another unique feature of the event is its revamped format  the X-treme and Adventure category candidates will go on their separate paths initially before meeting at Rangdum,situated 11,998 feet above sea level in Jammu and Kashmir. Later,they will continue together via Penzi-La till Srinagar  their final stop.

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Vijay Parmar,president of Himalaya Motor Sports,said the event will have a total of six racing legs,among which,four will be in Jammu and Kashmir.

The route for the X-treme Category will begin from Shimla on October 11. The participants will travel through the districts of Mandi and Kullu before halting in Manali. From Manali,they will proceed through Rohtang Pass to halt in Leh on October 12. The next day,they will pass through Leh,including the 18,300-foot Khardung-La  the highest motorable road in the world  and cover Kargil,Rangdum and Penzi-La before reaching Srinagar.